

There are cities that don’t captivate you immediately. They don’t offer postcard-perfect views that shout for attention, they lack long lines in front of “must-see” attractions, and they rarely appear on lists of the most desirable destinations. That is precisely why they are special. They don’t try to impress at first glance. Instead, they win you over slowly, quietly, almost imperceptibly, like a good book you keep returning to.

When you blend the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, sea and land, sun and powerful ocean rains, along with the customs and everyday life of the Iberian Peninsula, you get a formula for pure enjoyment. Portugal — a seafaring nation with a rich history, deep-rooted traditions, and a proud people — is a true revelation for most visitors experiencing this part of the world for the first time. For travelers from the Balkans, especially so.

When we, coming from the mountainous Balkans, think of Portugal, we usually picture Lisbon and Porto. We imagine Madeira, the island that gave the world Cristiano Ronaldo, and only the most devoted football fans might recall Guimarães. Yet this city, beyond its famous football club Vitória SC, has so much more to offer.

It’s a spotless day in the Persian Gulf and I am squinting my eyes to try to see the Falkland Islands. If the information gleaned from Google Maps is correct, they should be about 50 degrees to my right and one mile away, making them just about visible without my having to leave my private pool.

Boutique hotels are more than just places to stay — they are an experience. Each carries its own soul, character, and design language, making them one of the finest ways for a true hedonist to enjoy a journey.

Lisbon is a city that wins you over slowly, layer by layer, much like the sunset that slides over the Tagus River and settles onto the pastel façades of the old town. Some call it the city of light. Others, a city of music and nostalgia. Hedonists will say — Lisbon is a feeling.

Autumn in Europe has a charm of its own. As the leaves turn into a palette of gold and crimson, city streets grow quieter, while the aromas of wine, coffee, and roasted chestnuts fill the air with warmth and nostalgia. If you’re planning a short trip this season, we’ve selected five destinations that become truly magical in autumn.